"I remember quite well, sir," said Garavel--"'La Tosca.' Since you
are a friend of Mrs. Cortlandt I shall be delighted to serve you."
Now that they were face to face, Kirk felt that he distinctly
approved of Chiquita's father. This dignified, distinguished-
looking gentleman awaited his pleasure with an air of leisurely
courtesy that would have made him under other circumstances very
easy of approach. But there was a keenness in his dark eyes that
suggested the futility of beating round the bush. Kirk felt
suddenly a little awkward.
"I have something very particular to say to you," he began,
diffidently, "but I don't know just how to get at it."
Garavel smiled graciously. "I am a business man."
"This isn't business," blurted Kirk; "it's much more important. I
want to have it over as quickly as possible, so I'll be frank. I
have met your daughter, Mr. Garavel"--the banker's eyes widened in
a look of disconcerting intensity--"and I am in love with her--
sort of a shock, isn't it? It was to me. I'd like to tell you who
I am and anything else you may wish to know."
"My dear sir, you surprise me--if you are really serious. Why, you
have seen her but once--a moment, at the theatre!"
"I met her before that night, out at your country place.
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